Your adjusted gross income is on line 11a of a 2025 Form 1040, and on line 11 of 2024 and 2023 returns. No copy of last year's return? Your tax software account or a tax return transcript shows it. Use the number from the original return you filed, not an amended one.
On this page
Three places to look
- Your copy of last year's return. Line 11a on a 2025 Form 1040 or 1040-SR, or line 11 on a 2024 or 2023 return.
- Your tax software or last year's preparer. Most software keeps past returns in your account, and a preparer can read you the number.
- A tax return transcript. It shows your AGI as originally filed. View it online or get it by mail in 5 to 10 calendar days. See how to get a transcript.
Which number to enter
| Your situation | What to enter |
|---|---|
| You filed last year and it was processed | The AGI from that original return |
| You amended last year's return | The AGI from the original return, not the amended one |
| You didn't file last year | 0 |
| You filed late and it may not have been processed in time | Often 0. Check with a tax pro before you resubmit |
| You're filing jointly | Each spouse enters their own prior-year AGI. If you filed jointly last year, it's the same number for both |
If your return was rejected for the AGI
Rejection code IND-031-04 means the prior-year AGI or Self-Select PIN you entered didn't match. Go back to the signature step, check the number against your original return, and resubmit. You can also sign with last year's Self-Select PIN instead of the AGI, if you remember it. More on PINs: which PIN you need to e-file.
When a call helps
- You can't find last year's return or sign in to your old software
- Your return keeps getting rejected on the AGI step
- You amended, filed late, or changed filing status since last year
- You'd like a tax pro to prepare and e-file this year's return, as a paid service
Quick answers
Why does my software want last year's AGI?
To confirm it's really you signing the return. It's checked against the records for the return you filed last year.
I amended last year's return. Which AGI do I use?
The AGI from the original return you filed, not the amended one.
When should I enter 0?
If you didn't file a return last year, or last year's return wasn't processed in time. If you're not sure, ask a tax pro before you resubmit.
Can you look up my AGI?
No. We can't see tax records. A tax pro can tell you where to find it and which number to enter.
Have a different question?
Call and ask a tax pro. Open 8 AM to 10 PM Eastern, January through April.
No appointment needed.
More questions
Sources
Checked November 12, 2026.